Shipps Funeral Home, Inc. | Sylvester, GA

Obituary For Bennie Nelson III

The funeral services for the late Mr. Bennie Nelson, who departed this life on Friday, November 17, 2023, at Piedmont Henry Hospital in Stockbridge, Georgia, will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. from the Venue 80 Multipurpose Center, East Franklin St., Sylvester, Georgia. Burial will follow in the Shepard Memorial Garden Cemetery in Sylvester, Georgia. Services may be viewed Facebook Live from the “Shipps Funeral Home” Facebook page or by clicking the Video Stream link on this site's Home Page.

Today, we gather here to celebrate the remarkable life of Bennie Nelson III, affectionately known as Coach Nelson. Born on January 7, 1970, in Sylvester, GA, to the late Cherrie Boone Nelson and Bennie Nelson, Jr. Bennie's journey was one marked by athleticism, education, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Bennie's early years were shaped by his time in the Worth County School System, where he not only excelled academically but also showcased his extraordinary athletic talents. As a proud member of the 1988 Worth County Football Championship Team, he left an indelible mark on his alma mater.

Taking his skills to the University of Georgia on a track scholarship, Bennie continued to make a name for himself both on the track and the football field. His dedication led him to Fort Valley State University, where he not only earned a Bachelor of Science degree but also signed as a Free Agent with the Philadelphia Eagles. His academic pursuits did not end there, as he later earned a Master's Degree in Education from Troy State University.

However, Bennie's greatest commitment was to his faith. Having given his life to Christ at an early age, he became an integral part of the Pentecostal Full Gospel Church and later moved his membership to the House of Hope in Atlanta, GA.

In 1998, Bennie embarked on a new chapter, marrying the love of his life, Arthelia Moore. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, love, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Bennie's professional journey reflected his passion for making a difference, particularly in the lives of children. Starting his career at the Georgia Center for Youth, he later worked at the Methodist Home in Macon, GA, before joining the Bibb County School System. His roles as a Teacher and Football Coach at various schools, including Bruce Elementary, Neel Academy, and Bloomfield Middle Schools, showcased his dedication to education and mentorship.

Relocating to Stockbridge, GA, in 2011, Bennie continued to influence young minds at Freedom Middle School, Chamblee-Tucker Middle School, Sequoyah Middle School, and Mt. Zion High School. Beyond the school walls, he took on community coaching positions at Central Fellowship Christian Academy in Macon, GA, and the North Henry Tigers in Stockbridge, GA.

An avid Florida State fan, Bennie found joy in family, especially spending time with his children, and embarking on family trips. His infectious love for life and unwavering commitment to his others will be deeply missed.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased in death by a devoted Mother-in Law , Annie Ruth Moore and uncle Clarence Nelson.

Bennie Nelson III leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his immediate family. His memory will forever be cherished by his loving wife, Arthelia Moore-Nelson, and their children: Sage, Brasley, Brailey, Kai, Cassidy, and Kason. He is also survived by his sisters Sheila Green, Quinta Smith, and Latika Dassie (Eddie), as well as a devoted brother-in-law, Arthur Moore (Chandra), an aunt that is like a mother, Betha Hanford and other extended family members including aunts and uncles, Lillie Williams (Shebbie), Linda Wise; Uncles Howard Harris (Gloria), Felton Nelson (Lillie), Frank Wise, Edmond Wise, and Michael Wise (Molinda).

In honoring Bennie's memory, let us remember the impact he had on the lives of his Godchildren (Ariel, Jacob and Derionte), foster children, former students and athletes, coworkers, as well as the Worth County Community. Today, we celebrate a life well lived—a life that touched the hearts of many and will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Guest Book

Buddy, you are gone too soon !! Thank you for your kind words, the laughs, the advice and being a great teammate in Warrior Nation and beyond

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I'm so sorry you had to go so soon but God has better plans for you

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You were my protector

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I love you

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Fly high Benny until we meet again. I will always love and miss you. ❤️😘 We had so much muchgrowing up. Watch over me please..

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Dear Heavenly Father, I want to say how honored I am to know the family of Bennie Nelson and family. Bennie, Arthelia and I have had so many conversations together over the years and I want to express the kind and loving person that Bennie was to me. When he spoke of his beautiful wife Arthelia, this man had so much love in his heart for her. He spoke of his children, his foster children and godchildren with so much love, he really loved his family. Dear GOD, I'm heartbroken 💔 of his passing however I know that you needed him more. Rest in heaven Mr. Bennie Nelson. With so much love and deep respect 🙏, Melody Moore.

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Forever in my heart. -Bryanna

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My deepest condolences to Thea, the kida and family. Bennie was a great person to know. I will continue to pray for everyone. May God continue to give you all strength and peace. Tonia Talton-Mickles.💙💛💙💛

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So sorry Theila and family. Bennie was so nice to me at Fort Valley. He will definitely be missed.

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My love and prayers go out to my friends and FVSU roommates. Tiffany Barner-Askew

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My deepest sympathy to the family from Mary Woolbright

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Sending my Sincere Condolences to the Nelson family.He( Coach) will be truly miss the impact he made on my son keith life we will always treasure it.

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To Arthelia So sorry for your loss and my your hearts be soon filled with loving memories you all shared together. Praying for the Nelson family and friends 🕊️ Lisa Grace; Macon, Georgia

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To Arthelia So sorry for your loss and my your hearts be soon filled with loving memories you all shared together. Praying for the Nelson family and friends 🕊️

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My condolences to the family. Praying for the family strength and comfort. From The Thurmond Family

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My condolences to the Nelson family. Praying for the family strength and comfort.

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Bennie,I can't remember when we first met at the Valley but I know we've shared many laughs. I will always remember our laughs. I know you're not suffering any longer. May you rest in paradise 🙏

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Sincerest condolences to Bennie's family. He was a great athlete and an even better person. He will be missed but never forgotten.

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My condolences to Latika Dassie and her family. On behalf of the Tifton Housing Authority, may you find strength and peace during this difficult time. Shaundra Clark Tifton Housing Authority Staff

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We are praying for strength for you and your family Tika Boo! We love you♥️ Charles & Valerie Sneed and Family

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My condolences to the family. Rest in Paradise Bennie. Robert Brown and family

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Our Deepest Condolences to the Family. Sending Love ❤️ & Many Prayers to the family. ~ Phillip&Sheena

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May God give you all strength at this difficult time.. Prayers for the family..I love you Tika ❤️

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Sending Prayers of Strength Love to Arthelia and family. This saddens my heart for you all. Bennie was a kind loving man. May his precious memories keep you in peace. Rev. Diane Long & Deacon Nicodemus Long

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My continued condolences and prayers to the Nelson family during this difficult time. May your legacy live on through the lives of others! -Stokes(Raven and Kaylen)

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Sending my love and prayers to the Nelson family. Coach Nelson was a standup gentleman that was respected and loved by many. Love The Carlisles.

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My deepest heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family during this time. May God continue to bless and strengthen you all during this time.... + R.I.H BENNIE + " RAM BOYS" Kivett Milton

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Bennie, auntie didn't know you were sick. I would have been there for you. I love you, Tika, and Bertha so very much. Family just know that I'm praying for you and I love you. Your mom Cherrie was my best friend. I'm having a hard time digesting this news. 🩵🩵🩵🩵 Auntie Brenda Womack Hamilton

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Latika, you and your family are in our prayers!

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Shipps Funeral Home, Inc. | Sylvester, GA